6 Best Places to Shop in Les Trois-Îlets, Martinique

At this group of shops, a major tourist attraction in the area, you can watch the creation of Arawak- and Carib-style pots, vases, and jars; plus, there are shops with interesting gifts, jewelry, and clothing, especially pareos (wraparound skirts). Several appealing restaurants (particularly the bakery) also make it a good stopover for lunch. There's also a go-kart track and kayaking.

This is one of those artsy souvenir shops that is so chockablock full that you are fascinated, amazed at every turn. There are many small items that would fit in luggage, such as colorful, metallic sculptures. Some of the most fanciful items are home accessories. Luc Ferrari, a designer (and importer) of art deco, showcases his wares here.

Stop in here for French sailor jerseys in creative colors, youthful straw purses in bold hues, fun jewelry, and bathing suits.

Across from the Village Créole, this gallery combines Sophie and Henry, both in name and content. On sale are the originals and limited prints of a French couple who live aboard their sailboat and paint the beauty of the sea and the island, from exotic birds to banana trucks.

The trained staff here can formulate your very own eau du parfum from more than 50 available fragrances. The ingredients are natural and from the island. The store also sells soaps and body oils that include a natural bronzer with oil of roucou and a coconut oil base. One purse-size spray that everyone should carry is an anti-mosquito oil with eucalyptus and citronella. Many of the spray atomizers (non aerosol) are less than 3 ounces and can be carried aboard your homebound plane.

La Petite Boutique offers a unique children's collection, including jewelry, and madras dollies. There are also contemporary mini-styles from upscale kid companies.